Racing and Equine

FutureNow’s industry coverage for the racing and equine sector incorporates activities in; farriery, horse and dog racing, sports and physical recreation, amusement and other recreation, and wagering. This broad reaching set of industry sectors is a major contributor to the Western Australian economy, ranging from breeding, elite participation and on-course attendance through to riding schools, hobbyists and volunteers. Major events such as racing carnivals feature the social and cultural vibrancy of the sector where partnerships and marquees continue to attract participants.

Racing and Equine in WA Today

Industry has focused on attracting young people into the sector to ensure the transfer of skills and knowledge, enabling workplace succession in an ageing workforce. Strategies are being devised to provide opportunities, incentives and sustainable remuneration for longevity in industry well beyond racing.

Career pathways span across; thoroughbred, harness and greyhound ownership, breeding, training, racing and retirement; stud and horse farms, equestrian disciplines and clubs, riding schools, agistment, trail ride work, horse transport, horse management, coaching and officiating. Farriery is a trade qualification supplying services to the racing and broader equine industries. The sector is also represented by a large number of people volunteering at race clubs in administrative roles, hospitality, racing operations and preparations for race day.

Our Industry Partners

FutureNow collaborates with organisations, peak bodies and employers across the sector. In particular, we wish to thank all the independent small business representatives who provide critical industry intelligence and the following partner organisations, who maintain representation on our Board and Industry Advisory Group:

Current Projects

Thin Market Delivery – Certificate III in FarrieryFutureNow has been consulting with industry on thin market delivery of Certificate III in Farriery to inform the Department of Training and Workforce Development of industry needs and suitability of current arrangements by a South Australian training provider.

State Priority Occupation ListFutureNow continues to research and gather industry intelligence on occupations for input into the 2018 SPOL, including the impact of skilled migration reforms. Of particular interest are areas of unmet demand among occupations servicing the racing, breeding and equine industry.

Harmonisation of Apprenticeship DurationsFutureNow consulted with industry stakeholders and peak bodies and also sought advice from the Fair Work Commission, Department of Commerce and Unions on the harmonisation of apprenticeship durations to the applicable State or Modern Awards for Certificate III in Farriery (Farrier). Feedback from stakeholders has indicated the nominal duration be varied from 36 months to 48 months to align with the national duration. This recommendation was provided to the Department of Training and Workforce Development for consideration.

Training and Education

Rural Training Australia delivers traineeships in Certificate III Racing (Track Rider) and Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey) traineeships. Racing and Wagering Western Australia also offers internal training and assessment for stewards, barrier attendants and harness catchers.Interstate provider, Educational Services and Consultants, delivers farrier apprentice training in Western Australia for students undertaking Certificate III in Farriery, combining practical on-the-job training with theory based study through an employer contract.FutureNow works with stakeholders across the training and education landscape, and has a formal role to play in the development of vocational education and training to meet industry needs. A key role is to advocate for a supply of racing and equine qualifications in Western Australia to meet industry needs for qualified and skilled graduates in critical occupations.

RGR08 RacingTraining Package

Training package qualifications are developed through a process of national consultation with industry. They are occupational skills standards against which training delivery and assessment of competency can take place.

​FutureNow works with our industry partners across Western Australia to provide current industry advice into the development and review of training package products.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

​Apprenticeships and traineeships provide a way to combine training with a job, enabling the student to work towards a nationally recognised qualification whilst earning a wage. A number of equine related qualifications may be completed as an apprenticeship or traineeship.

​Vocational Education in Schools

FutureNow works with industry to provide current advice on the suitability of vocational racing and equine qualifications for delivery in schools. This advice is collated and updated annually into the VET in Schools Register by the Department of Training and Workforce Development.